6 Top Offbeat Hill Stations in South India

Most of the educational institutions in south India are closed for summer holidays through April and May. It is also a period when families travel to hill stations like Ooty, Munnar, or Kodaikanal. These three are the most popular hill stations in South India. Apparently, they are also the most crowded hill stations in south India. Of course, these are marvelous places to visit at least once. At the same time, like hidden treasures, there are several offbeat hill stations in south India. A few of these offbeat hill stations are listed below to try out this summer.  

Vythiri, Kerala

Are you looking forward to a relaxed holiday at a scenic location? Vythiri in Kerala is one of the offbeat hill stations in south India. The hill station is popular for its green cover, pleasant climate throughout the year, and spice and coffee plantations.

Major tourist attractions at Vythiri include Pookote Lake, Chembra Peak, Soochipara & Meenmutty Falls, Edakkal Caves, Banasura Sagar Dam, and Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary. You can also trek to Karalad Lake and enjoy boating in this lake.

How to reach?

The nearest railway station in Kozhikode is about 63 km away. There is no railway in Wayanad however the district is well connected by road.

Araku Valley, Andhra Pradesh

Misty hills and coffee plantations welcome you to Araku Valley. Nestled perfectly in the bosom of the Western Ghats, Araku Valley is located in Andhra Pradesh. The scenic location can be a top choice for you if you are looking for peace in the serenity of nature. Wildlife and natural surroundings in a relatively cool temperature make Araku Valley a top offbeat hill station even in summer. Coffee plantations, rivulets, and oak trees, among other verdant flora, complete the magical panorama.

Months between December and February are considered the peak time to visit. Yet, the climate remains pleasant even during summer.

Borra Caves and Tyada village are two exciting spots travelers never miss while visiting Araku Valley.

How to Reach?

The nearest airport is situated in Visakhapatnam around 130 kilometers away. Traveling by bus is among the most cost-effective methods to reach Araku Valley. The nearest railway station is in Visakhapatnam.

Coorg, Karnataka

Coorg, “Scotland of India” as it is popularly known as one of the mesmerizing offbeat hill stations in South India. For a number of reasons, the hilly town is famous. It is the largest producer of coffee in South India. Can you imagine the experience of ambling through these plantations when it is blooming season?

A large expansion of spice plantations, heritage tour, and enjoyable climate spice up your stay. There are a number of homestays all over the town to host you.

Visiting wildlife reserves like Nagarhole, Dubare, and Pushpagiri can thrill you. When you are in Coorg, plan to visit Madikeri Fort, Talacauvery, Tadiandamol Peak, Brahmagiri Hill, Iruppu Falls, Abbey Falls, and the renowned Golden Temple.

Enjoying succulent Coorgi delicacies is another delightful part of being in Coorg.

Winter is certainly the best time to visit Coorg, however, even summer months are pleasant.

How to reach?

Mangalore Airport is situated around 150 km away and Mysore Airport is around 120 km away. The nearest railway station is in Mysore. Coorg can easily be accessed by road as it is well connected to cities like Mysore, Bangalore, and Mangalore.

Yercaud, Tamil Nadu

One of the popular offbeat hill stations in south India is Yercaud. It is a picturesque landscape dotted with fruit groves, spice, and coffee plantations. At an altitude of 1515 m above sea level, Yercaud is spread across Shevaroy Ranges in the Eastern Ghats.

Besides orchards and spices, sandalwood, silver oaks, and teak trees add charm to the greenery in Yercaud. Kiliyur Falls, Lady's Seat, Gents Seat, Shervaroyan Temple, Japanese Park, Pagoda Point, Botanical Garden, The Grange, Anna Park, and White Elephant Tooth Rock are a few spots worth visiting in the area. Trekking, boating, and bird-watching can keep you engaged too.

July to September when it is the rainy season, it is better to avoid visiting Yercaud. All other months provide an amiable ambiance to stay.

How to Reach?

Salem airport is just around 45 km away and the nearest railway station is around 40 km away at Salem junction. The hill town is well connected by road to all the major cities and towns.

Peermade, Kerala

A quiet stay among tea estates and cardamom plantations is the experience awaiting you at Peermade. The ambiance becomes all the more charming with misty mornings and verdant surroundings. Mini waterfalls and lakes make trekking an exhilarating experience.

Situated in the Western Ghats, Peermade was the favorite summer retreat of the Maharajas of Travancore. Now, the hill station is frequented by tourists, especially en route to the Periyar Tiger Reserve.

Can you imagine long walks through plantations of coffee, tea, coconut, pepper, cardamom, rubber, and eucalyptus?

Madamkulam, Meloram, Nallathanni, Panchalimedu, and Valanjamkanam are all worth visiting while at Peermade. Then there are Pattumala, Parunthumpara (Eagle Rock), Panchalimedu, Kuttikanam, Thrissanku Hills, Vagamon, and Pallikunnu CSI Church (built in the 1800s).

How to reach?

Kochi Airport is around 60 km away and Kottayam railway station is around 55 km away. The town in the Idukki district is well connected by road.

Lambasingi, Andhra Pradesh

Chilly weather is the highlight of Lambasingi. At a time when the entire state reels under scorching heat, Lambasingi situated at around 1,000 meters above sea level becomes a paradise. It is one of the picturesque offbeat hill stations in south India. No wonder it is also known as the Kashmir of Andhra Pradesh.

Tourists visit the hill stations to spend the weekends and trek through the orchards. Misty mountains, apple orchards, and coffee plantations provide amazing views.

Since the spot is yet to be commercially popular, the usual crowd and rush seen on other hilltops will not be a hindrance here.

How to reach? Visakhapatnam Airport and railway station are around 100 km away. Traveling by road is the best option.